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The festivals just don’t stop in Atlanta, Georgia. This weekend, do yourself a favor and check out the Atlanta Fall Wine Festival.
It’s one of the best festivals in Atlanta.
The Atlanta Fall Wine Festival is happening in Old Fourth Ward just across the street from Ponce City Market (whoohoo!) and it runs from1 pm-5 pm.
The festival will also feature over 100 different wines, beers and ciders to sample from Atlanta, the Southeast, and all over America. And of course, live music will be provided by a fire DJ!
Atlanta Fine Wine Festival: Everything You Need To Know
This year’s Atlanta Fall Wine Festival promises to be a good one. It is a 21 and up event with no kids, babies or pets allowed. And of course, no outside food or beverages.
The festival will commence no matter if it’s rain or shine. Chairs, blankets, and small bags are okay.
When Is The Atlanta Winter Wine Festival?
The festival is set for the following date and time:
Date & Time:
Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at 1:00 EDT to 5:00 EDT
Location:
Historic Fourth Ward Park 680 Dallas St NE, Atlanta, GA
How Much Are Tickets?
Festival Tickets are $55 in advance and $65 at the door unless its sold out.
If you’re wondering what your ticket includes, it comes with a souvenir acrylic wine glass, entertainment, and all of your wine, cider, & beer samples. Food will cost extra. Get the details.
Your ticket price includes a souvenir acrylic wine glass, entertainment, and all of your wine, cider, & beer samples. Food will cost extra. There will not be any Designated Driver tickets.
The Atlanta Fall Wine Festival isn’t the only thing going on these days in Atlanta. Check out the best things to do in Atlanta.
Final Word
Atlanta has just about everything you need for a fun time in a big-city. If you love to laugh, you should check out the best comedy clubs in Atlanta.
For those who feel like dancing or vibing to some music, Atlanta’s got some of the best clubs in the South.
Want to get out of the house during the day? Why not get some shopping in the city by patronizing local vendors with handmade goods, arts, crafts, candles, soaps, vintage and more.
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Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith is no longer playing a game of “wait and see” when it comes to who will start at quarterback on Sunday. Smith said on Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023, that Taylor Heinicke will start for the second week in a row.
Atlanta’s schedule has been called one of the easiest in the NFL, but its record (4-5) doesn’t match that. The Falcons play the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023, at 4:05 p.m. ET.
Heinicke Will Start Against Arizona
Atlanta lost a nail biter last week to the Minnesota Vikings 31-28 with both teams starting new quarterbacks on the season.
The Falcons’ Heinicke threw for 268 yards with a touchdown and an interception vs. Josh Dobbs who passed for 158, including the game winner with under a minute left.
Still, Smith was evidently impressed enough with Heinicke that he’s confident that he can get Atlanta a much-needed win.
“”You don’t want to play with a two-quarterback system and whatnot. But I think just kind of where we’re at, and everything that’s going on, the bye week will be a good time to assess,” Smith said, according to the Atlanta Falcons website. “I certainly don’t plan on it being week-to-week after that. But we need to do everything we can to go get this win out in Arizona.”
Smith has been criticized for not getting the bill to playmakers like running back Tyler Allgeier, who Smith says is “one of the best goal line and short-yardage backs in the league.”
Atlanta’s breakout back Bijan Robinson wasn’t feeling well last game. He reportedly was coping told with a bad headache. Smith chose not to test him.
Will Desmond Ridder Return?
Ridder suffered a concussion two weeks ago but was cleared to go back in the game, which has puzzled fans who want yo see him play.
Smith said he has just been following the advice from the team’s doctors who hav Ed been examining Ridder.
“I’m not ever going to claim to be a medical expert,” he said.
Smith has purportedly taken umbrage to the social media posts from former Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner, who has been breaking down lapses in the Falcons protection schemes and plays.
“I don’t care. I really don’t. Everybody has their opinions,” Smith said according to
https://www.outkick.com/retired-qb-kurt-warner-sacked-by-falcons-coach-arthur-smith-over-hot-takes/. “He’s welcome to come down here to our meetings. I would actually embrace that. I’m sure he gets paid a lot of money. I could give a rat’s… whatever. Unless you’re in the building with our guys and know what is asked of them and know what is really going on.”
Want more sports content? Read why Atlanta is a sports paradise.
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If you own a home, sooner or later you’re going to have some plumbing problems. It’s not necessarily anybody’s fault, except the pipes in your newer or older home. That’s when you may need a plumber.
Looking for a plumber in Atlanta or any other metropolitan city can be difficult, if you don’t know how to get around it. Courtesy of our Home Improvement series, we can help you.
This article will show you step-by-step how to hire a plumber for your home or business.
The reason why you need to be careful with who you hire to fix your pipes is because there are a lot of scammers out there. But let’s start with the problem and go from there.
Identify Your Plumbing Issue
To the best of your ability you need to find out what exactly is the problem with your plumbing. Is there a leak? Do you have water damage on a floor, the ceiling or between the walls?
Determine the specific plumbing issue you need to address. Is it a leak, a clogged drain, a water heater problem, or a larger plumbing project like a bathroom remodel? Understanding your needs will help you find a plumber with the right expertise.
Shop For a Plumber
It’s time to go plumber-shopping. You can do this online but you also need to gather recommendations from friends, family and associates.
Seek recommendations from people who have had positive experiences with plumbers in your area. Personal referrals can be valuable because they have the trust factor.
The easiest way to compare plumbers is to get online and do research. Use online platforms, such as review websites like Yelp, Angie’s List, or the Better Business Bureau, to find highly-rated plumbers in your locality.
If you can, interview multiple plumbers. Contact several plumbers to discuss your project. Ask about their experience, qualifications, and if they have experience with the type of work you need.
Inquire about their availability and rates for service calls or estimates.Check Their Credentials
What you want is a licensed contractor who knows how to do the job you want. Some plumbers specialize in different areas. Some may only do construction. Others may be geared toward bathroom remodels. Don’t skip the opportunity to verify that the plumber is licensed to work in your area. Contact your local licensing board to confirm their credentials.
Ensure the plumber carries liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage to protect you in case of accidents or damage on your property.
Once you’ve checked the credentials of a plumber it’s time to contact them to see if they have the time, skills and availability to solve your plumbing issue.
Contact the Plumber
Maintain open and clear communication with the plumber throughout the project. Discuss the timeline, any potential issues, and ensure you are both on the same page regarding the work to be done.
Ensure that the plumber will obtain any necessary permits for your project. They should also adhere to local building codes and regulations.
Request Written Estimates
Because plumbers you talk to are going to tell you what you want to hear, make sure you get everything you want in writing.
Ask for written estimates from the plumbers you are considering. Make sure the estimates are detailed, outlining the scope of work, materials, labor costs, and any potential additional charges.
Compare the estimates to determine the most reasonable cost.Sign a contract that includes all project details, payment terms, start and completion dates, and any warranties.
Don’t Forget About References and Reviews
Request references from the plumber and contact them to inquire about their experiences and satisfaction with the plumber’s work.
You’ll also want to research online reviews and ratings to gauge the plumber’s reputation and reliability.
Agree On Payment
After a conversation of all the expenses involved in the job, it’s time to agree on the cost of the plumbing job.
Avoid paying the full cost upfront. Payment schedules should be based on project milestones, with the final payment made upon satisfactory completion of the work.
Don’t be afraid to ask about guarantees and warranties. Inquire about any warranties or guarantees on the work performed. A reputable plumber should stand behind their work and materials.
Communicate Early and Often
While the job is being done, you’ll want to stay in open communication with the plumber to head off any issues or unexpected problems that arise.
After the work is completed, it’s up to you to perform a final inspection to ensure that the plumbing issue has been resolved to your satisfaction.
Leave a Review and Feedback After the Job Is Done
Consider leaving a review or providing feedback on the plumber’s performance. Your feedback can be helpful for others in need of plumbing services.
Final Word
Hiring a qualified and reputable plumber is crucial to ensure that your plumbing issues are addressed professionally and efficiently. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want and that includes:
- Asking for written estimates
- Asking for references
- Telling the plumber what you want
By following these steps, you can make an informed decision and find a plumber who meets your specific needs.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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When you take a look at the real estate market in Atlanta, Georgia, and elsewhere, you notice that some of the only affordable units are older homes.
If you’re thinking about buying an older home, you need to understand that there are some safety risks you assume that newer structures wouldn’t have.
This is another resource in our Home Improvement Series that helps people achieve their goals in real estae.
Why Might an Older House Have More Safety Risk Than a New One?
Older houses may have more safety risks than newer ones because of the vast range of problems you might inherit with a blighted, decaying structure. These more than likely will increase your safety risks.
Outdated Building Codes: Older houses were built to codes and standards that may not meet today’s safety requirements. Building codes have evolved to incorporate improved safety measures, such as fire-resistant materials, electrical wiring standards, and structural reinforcement. Older homes may not meet these modern safety standards.
Lead and Asbestos: Older homes may contain lead-based paint and asbestos materials, which can be hazardous to health when disturbed. Proper removal and abatement are necessary to mitigate the risks associated with these substances.
Structural Issues: The structural integrity of older homes can deteriorate over time. Foundation settling, rot, termite damage, and inadequate support can compromise the safety of the structure. It’s essential to inspect and address these issues.
Pests and Mold: Older homes may be more susceptible to pest infestations and mold growth due to aging materials and construction methods. These issues can affect the health and safety of residents.
Once you consider the risks with buying an older home, here are some other factors that come into play.
Can You Pay What an Older House Cost?
Many real estate professionals may try to sell you on an older home’s “historic” value, but if the comps (comparable sales in the area) don’t match up, no amount of history is going to make that house worth it.
Can You Afford the Repairs?
Older homes often need a lot of TLC to look up to par from bathroom remodels to tear-downs and more.
To fix what’s broken and to help mitigate safety risks, you’ll need to Invest in necessary renovations and updates to bring the house up to current safety standards is crucial. Hiring professionals, such as electricians, plumbers, and contractors, can help ensure that safety hazards are properly addressed.
Read our guide on how to hire a contractor.
Are You Up for the Challenge Of Owning an Old House?
Whether or not to buy an older house depends on your specific needs, preferences, budget, and willingness to take on potential challenges. Older houses can offer unique character and charm, but they also come with their own set of considerations.
Most Important: Home Inspection
More than any other homes, an older house may have hidden damage or outdated code work that needs immediate attention before you can sign the dotted line.
When considering buying an older house, it’s essential to have a thorough inspection conducted by a qualified home inspector to uncover any potential issues.
Additionally, consult with a real estate agent who is experienced in older home sales, as they can provide valuable insights and guidance.
Buying an Older Home: Pros and Cons
Pros Cons Character and Charm: Older houses often have distinctive architectural features, such as hardwood floors, ornate moldings, and unique design elements that can be appealing. Maintenance and Repairs: Older houses may require more frequent maintenance and repairs, and some systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) may need to be updated or replaced. Established Neighborhoods: Many older houses are located in well-established neighborhoods with mature trees and a sense of community. Energy Efficiency: Older homes are often less energy-efficient than newer homes. This can lead to higher utility bills and may require upgrades to insulation, windows, and appliances. Solid Construction: Some older homes were built with high-quality materials and craftsmanship that may be superior to newer construction. Hidden Issues: Older houses may have hidden issues, such as lead paint, asbestos, or structural problems. A thorough inspection is crucial. Potential for Value Appreciation: Well-maintained older homes in desirable neighborhoods can appreciate in value over time. Limited Modern Amenities: Older homes may lack modern amenities, such as walk-in closets, open floor plans, or large bathrooms, which are common in newer homes. Renovation and Customization: Older houses provide an opportunity for renovation and customization to make the home your own. Resale Value: Depending on the local real estate market, older homes may not appreciate in value as quickly as newer homes. Final Word
Ultimately, the decision to buy an older house should align with your lifestyle, budget, and willingness to take on maintenance and renovations. If you appreciate the character and history of older homes and are prepared for the potential challenges they pose, buying an older house can be a rewarding experience.
Keep in mind that with the right renovations and maintenance, older homes can be made safe and comfortable for modern living.
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If you buy an older house, one of the expenses you may eventually face is a bathroom remodel. That means you’re going to have to have some money set aside.
How Much Is a Bathroom Remodel?
The cost of remodeling a bathroom can vary widely depending on several factors, including the scope of the project, the quality of materials, your location, and whether you’re doing the work yourself or hiring professionals.
On average, bathroom remodeling costs in the United States can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars or more. Here are some cost considerations:
A few months ago, we decided to remodel a bathroom in our Georgia home. I knew that I wanted to take an affordable option rather than go all out on the bathroom renovation.
In this article, I’m going to show you all the steps to take to remodel a bathroom for less.
How To Remodel a Bathroom
Before you get started, you need to consider some things:
Scope of the Project
The extent of your bathroom remodel will have the most significant impact on the cost. A minor cosmetic update, such as replacing fixtures and giving the bathroom a fresh coat of paint, will cost significantly less than a full-scale renovation that involves moving plumbing, replacing all fixtures, and changing the layout.
I knew that I wanted to spend around $5,000 on a bathroom remodel. That automatically meant that whoever I hired needed to be a small business owner and not a big conglomerate that hires a bunch of people.
Design and Planning
If you hire a designer or architect to help plan your bathroom remodel, their fees will be an additional cost.
If you’re married, there is a good chance that your spouse may choose to take on this part of the project. Not only will it save you money (like it did in my case) but it can make for a happy home:)
Materials and Fixtures
You also need to decide if you’re going to buy high-end fixtures from boutique vendors or if you’re going to visit your local Home Depot and Lowe’s for the run-of-the-mill products.
The quality and type of materials and fixtures you choose can greatly affect the cost. High-end materials, like natural stone or designer fixtures, will increase the budget.
Labor Costs
Finding affordable contractors has always been a sport in Atlanta, but it’s a necessary endeavor if you want to save more.
If you hire professionals, labor costs will be a substantial portion of your budget. Labor costs can vary by location and the complexity of the work.
Each of these resources has their detractors, but I found a contractor by looking at the following places:
- Angi
- Google Reviews
- Craigslist
Read our guide on hiring a reputable contractor.
Permits and Inspections
As a rule of thumb, in most municipalities, if you tear down an existing wall, you’ll need a permit to get the work done. This is not only a safety protection, but it ensures that local building codes are enforced.
Depending on your local building codes and the extent of the remodel, you may need permits and inspections, which can add to the overall cost.
Demolition and Disposal
One of the most unexpected costs associated with a remodel is demolition and disposal of the trash. Many contractors will build the expenses of trash removal into their fee, but – as I found out – not all of them.
To save money, I chose to physically remove the trash from my home myself, and it was a major headache!
Removing old fixtures, tiles, and other materials can be a labor-intensive process and may require a dumpster for disposal.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
If you need to move plumbing or electrical connections, it will add to the cost of the project as well.
When you hire a contractor for a job that includes skills of the major trades, it is their responsibility to bring tradesmen in on the job to get the work completed.
Unexpected Issues
No matter how well you plan, there is always the possibility of unexpected and unforeseen problems with a remodel.
In my case, an old corroded plumbing pipe added some significant expenses and time to the project. You’ll have to plan for this whenever doing any kind of remodeling project.
Final Word
Remodeling a bathroom or any room in your house is a major task. There are so many pieces you’re going to have to put together to avoid crazy stress or debt problems.
And you also need to hire a reliable contractor that knows how to get the job done in the timeframe you’ve established.
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Hiring a contractor is a crucial part of any building or remodeling project you plan to start at your home. When I remodeled my bathroom, I had to make sure I hired the right person because I was trying to save money.
This article will show you how to hire a contractor in Atlanta.
Hiring a contractor for a home improvement or construction project is an important decision. It’s also essential to set a budget and stick to it, while allowing for a contingency fund to cover any unexpected expenses that may arise during the renovation process.
Define Your Project
Before you can hire someone to come to your home, you need to have a clearly defined idea of what you want accomplished.
Clearly define the scope of your project. Understand what work you want to be done, the materials you prefer, and any specific design or functionality requirements. This will be essential when communicating with potential contractors.
Do Your Research
Don’t just hire the first contractor you find online. Interview multiple contractors to find the best one that is available and works for you.
- Contact several contractors to discuss your project. Ask about their experience, previous projects, and whether they have worked on similar projects.
- Request references and follow up with those references to gauge the contractor’s reliability and work quality.
Get Recommendations From People You Know
Some associate of yours has likely gotten some renovation work done before. You just have to solicit them for advice and recommendations.
- Seek recommendations from friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers who have had similar work done. Personal recommendations are valuable.
- Online Searches: Use online resources, such as review websites like Yelp, Angie’s List, or the Better Business Bureau to find contractors in your area.
- Trade Associations and Unions: Check with local trade associations, such as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) or the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), for reputable contractors.
Here are some sites you need to check to find contractors:
- Angi
- Google Reviews
- Craigslist
Before You Hire a Contractor
Always take the extra time it takes to check for licensing and insurance.
Verify that the contractor is licensed and insured to work in your area. Contact your local licensing board to confirm their credentials.
Request a copy of their insurance certificates to ensure they have liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This protects you in case of accidents or damage on your property.
- Get Detailed Quotes:
- Ask for written estimates from the contractors you are considering. Make sure the estimates are detailed, including labor, materials, and a timeline for the project.
- Beware of significantly low bids, as they may indicate subpar materials or work quality.
- Check for Permits and Contracts:
- Ensure the contractor will obtain any necessary permits for the project. It’s essential that they comply with local building codes.
- Sign a detailed contract that includes project specifics, payment schedule, start and completion dates, and warranties. Read and understand the contract before signing.
Agree On a Payment Schedule
Everyone likes to know when they’re getting paid, so it would be a mutual benefit to discuss a payment schedule.
You’ll want to avoid paying the full cost upfront. A common practice is to make an initial down payment, with the remaining payments scheduled based on project milestones.
Also, never make the final payment until you are satisfied with the completed work.
Continually Give Your Opinion
To stay on the same page, always strive to maintain open and clear communication with the contractor throughout the project. Regular updates and addressing any concerns promptly are crucial.
- Document Everything:
- Keep records of all documents, including contracts, receipts, and communications with the contractor. These can be important in case of disputes or issues.
Make a Final Inspection
The contractor expects you to give the final go-ahead on the project, so don’t be shy about having an opinion on even the smallest things.
Once the work is completed, do a final inspection to ensure that everything is up to your satisfaction. Address any issues promptly.
- Review and Feedback: Consider leaving a review or providing feedback on the contractor’s performance, as this can help others in the future.
No matter if you have an expensive home or an average home, remember that choosing the right contractor is essential for the success of your project.
Final Word
You’re spending your own money, so make sure your contractor and yourself are on the same page at all times.
Remember to get a more accurate estimate for your specific bathroom remodel, it’s a good idea to consult with local contractors and obtain multiple quotes. The complexity of the project and your location will have a significant impact on the final cost.
Take your time, do your due diligence, and don’t rush into a decision. Hiring a reputable and qualified contractor can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
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Mercedes-Benz USA recently announced a partnership with lifestyle golf brand Eastside Golf to increase access and opportunities to play, learn and grow the sport.
The two entities will collaborate on the “Vehicles for Change” program to create unique activations to build a more inclusive community around the game, and advance golf beyond traditionally exclusive environments.
These initiatives will create accessible touchpoints to broader audiences and attract a new generation of diverse golf professionals and fans.
“At Mercedes-Benz, we are focused on innovation and transformation to create a better future. We are committed to community reinvestment that helps generate meaningful change and empower the next generation of leaders through increased access and education. Our partnership with Eastside Golf reflects this mission and aligns with our long-standing support of golf programs around the globe. Together, we’re helping to remove barriers and open doors to a game that is not only fun, but teaches valuable life lessons about humility, hard work, persistence and dedication.”
Monique Harrison, Head of Brand Marketing at Mercedes-Benz USAThe partnership kicked off in September 2023 at the Eastside Golf Invitational at The Grand Golf Club at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego. MBUSA executives joined Eastside Golf Founders, Olajuwon Ajanaku and Earl Cooper, to discuss their shared goal of increasing equitable access to the sport. The partnership will celebrate the history of the game while bringing authenticity and culture to the golf course. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the golf team from Morehouse College, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Atlanta.
“Eastside Golf was created to improve the experience and entry points for new golfers, young athletes and emerging professionals in the sport. We want to show people that they can compete or simply enjoy the game while remaining true to themselves, unapologetically. Our mission is to bring more diversity into every aspect of golf, from playing professionally and running golf courses, to media, marketing and beyond. This partnership with Mercedes-Benz is bringing us another step closer to our goals.”
When it comes to sports and exercise, you should always make time. That’s why AtlantaFi.com wants to help you with your journey. Check out how to make a home gym for cheap and even lose pounds in a hurry.
Read More on Atlantafi.com’s Sports Page:
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Could this be a new era for the Atlanta Falcons?
In their runup to the Minnesota Vikings game, Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith named third-string quarterback Taylor Heinicke as the starter.
Will Desmond Ridder Get His Job Back?
Only time will tell if this is a temporary move or one that has been made to save the season at the halfway mark. . You can buy season tickets to Falcons home games now.
Smith has been vocal about the change, saying that Ridder’s performance wasn’t the reason for the switch. But it’s no secret that the difference with Heinicke behind center was obvious:
- Ridder: 8/12 for 71 yards, 0 TD, 5 sacks, 1 fumble lost
- Heinicke: 12/21 for 175, 1 TD, no turnovers
Smith is no stranger to quarterback changes. Twelve games into the 2022 season, Smith pulled quarterback Marcus Mariota and went with rookie Marcus Mariota for the final four games of the season.
This time, Heinicke has gotten the nod after Ridder suffered a concussion in the first half against the Tennessee Titans in the Falcons’ 28-23 loss last week.
Who Is Taylor Heinicke?
Heinicke played college football at Old Dominion and signed with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2015. Two years later he was acquired by the Houston Texans before a brief stint with the Carolina Panthers.
In 2020, he landed with the Washington Commanders and saw significant playing time in 2021 and 2022 when he threw 20 touchdowns and 12 touchdowns respectively.
He signed with Atlanta as a third-string quarterback but has been thrust into the starting spot due to Ridder’s injury.
Does this mean that the Falcons have a quarterback controversy. Yes, it does. But that doesn’t mean it will last for long. If Heinicke does well, it will be hard for Smith to pull him. At the same time, if Heinicke stinks it up, Smith already has a narrative (injury) that can seamlessly put Ridder back behind center.
As long as the Falcons win, we’ll be OK with however is the signal caller.
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If you’re planning a trip abroad from Atlanta, you might want to check out Ireland.
Of course, there are some things you should know before going to Dublin or another city in the European country.
If you want to know about what you should bring on your trip as well as what to expect going from Atlanta to Dublin, here’s everything you need to know.
Best Time To Travel To Ireland
When is the best time to travel to Ireland? The weather is normally on the chilly side, but not frigid. Even in summer, the temperatures are mid 60s at the highest. So, it’s wise to always bring a jacket, because a chance of rain is ever-present.
The summertime months of July and August are when airfare is the highest for Ireland. For the best fares, it’s best to book a flight in the spring or fall.
Can You Fly Direct To Ireland?
Nonstop flights to Ireland can be had from airlines like Air France and Aer Lingus. From Atlanta, your best bet is Air Canada or Delta Air Lines.
If you’ve ever flown international from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, you know that the quality of your experience depends almost entirely on how early you arrive for your flight.
Hartsfield asks that you be at the airport at least three hours ahead of time when flying internationally. Hartsfield has an updated international concourse that makes it more convenient, but it all depends on how long the security checkpoint lines.
The checkpoint requires that you have your ID as well as passport, so don’t forget it.
Flying from Atlanta to Dublin
Once on your flight, it’s going to take most of the day for you to get there. Ireland’s timezone is five hours forward of Atlanta, so if it’s midnight in Georgia, it’s 5 a.m. in Dublin. You’ll need to keep this in mind while flying, because it may well mean you’ll be jetlagged when you touch ground.
Once you land in Ireland, you’ll be shuffled down a series of stairs and into the customs line. There you’ll show your passport and state your business in the country. The customs agent will ask you where you’re staying, too.
Renting A Car In Ireland
If you don’t have someone picking you up from the airport, you may have prearranged a car rental at Dublin Airport. The good news is that the airport has all the major car rental companies that you’re familiar with in the United States: Budget, Avis, Sixth, Etc.
If you’re renting a car at the airport, the first thing you’ll need to do is venture just outside the building to one of the transportation zones, where a shuttle will transport you to the appropriate rental car hub.
The one thing that I heard about renting a car in Ireland is that they are pretty strict about getting you to take out additional car insurance, a damage waiver to be precise.
Your options were said to be either take the extra car insurance, which could be upwards of $30-$40 a day or show proof of primary auto insurance.
If you do the latter and decline the rental car company’s insurance, they’re going to put at least a $5,000 hold on your credit card. Yes, you read that right!
Another option, it’s been said, to get out of this extra rental insurance was to have a letter or email authorization from your credit card that covers car rental insurance. Because I had this very credit card, I called them and asked that they send me their card benefits, which lists your coverage.
Surprisingly, I didn’t have to produce said email. I simply told them that I had insurance and they took me at my word and promptly put a $5,000 hold on my card.
Here’s some good information from Chase about renting a car:
When you pick up your rental, be sure to inspect the vehicle thoroughly. If you see any damage, immediately notify the rental car company. Record any pre-existing damage on the rental car company’s check out slip. It may also be helpful to take photos of the vehicle’s condition at the time of renting for your records.
The major thing about driving in Ireland is this:
You drive on the opposite side of the street. That’s the reason why car rental insurance is so crucial in Ireland. In fact, I saw a statistic that said that around 90% of rental cars have damage to them.
On the car that I rented, the agent was sure to mark at least four pre-existing marks around the vehicle. I found a couple more.
Once you hit the road, driving on the other side of the road is unnerving to say the least. The good news is that Irish drivers are no where NEAR as aggressive as Atlanta drivers. In many instances, people never even switch lanes to pass me up and in no case was a horn every honked at me.
Exchanging Your Currency
The biggest thing to remember is when you leave the airport, you may find it advantageous to exchange your U.S. dollars for some Euros. For peace of mind, this makes sense, but literally only a little sense. Don’t exchange a large amount in the airport because frankly the exchange rate is cheaper elsewhere.
The exchange rate at Dublin’s Airport is expensive compared to elsewhere in the city. Your best bet is using an ATM in your hotel. Of course, you’ll want to call ahead to make sure they have one.
Checking Into Your Hotel
Ireland’s hotels offer wide ranges of experiences. No matter if you choose an old Celtic cottage for your lodgings or an expensive modern hotel in Center Centre, they all operate the same way.
Whether it’s a parking fee or if you want to borrow a phone charger, everything is charged to your credit card “on hold.”
Tipping In Ireland
Unlike the United States, you don’t have to tip in Ireland. You’ll notice that your meals will generally be cheaper. As you venture to more restaurants, you’ll find that many of the servers will be from other parts of Europe, like France or Britain. They’re going to expect tips!
The key is that one size definitely doesn’t fit all when it comes to tips. So it’s best to risk the embarrassment and ask your server.
People
The Irish are a hospitable people who are more mannerly than Americans. My interactions, even when I was holding up traffic, were super-pleasant.
Of course, as an Uber driver told me, there are good and bad in all people. But for the most part, the republic just wants you to respect its heritage and enjoy a good “pint” at the pub.
The Irish are a stylish people, especially the young adults. Adidas is clearly the athletic apparel of choice.
Places To Visit In Dublin, Ireland
Dublin offers plenty of tourist destinations for visitors. Among them are:
- Guinness Storehouse
- Jameson Distillery
- Dublin Historical Walking Tour
- Dublin City Bike Tour
- Blarney Castle tour (Cork)
- Game of Thrones tour (Northern Ireland)
- Cliffs of Moher (day trip)
The Irish tour guides are very cognizant of tourist traps. At every turn most of them will tell you whether an establishment is one or not.
“They charge 8 Euro for a pint of Guinness,” they’ll say, incredulously.
You’ll hear about the 850 years under British rule and the instrumental role that Daniel O’Connell played in the rebellion and Irish independence.
Cliffs of Moher
One of the most beautiful nature wonders in all of Ireland are the Cliffs of Moher, sea cliffs on the edge of County Clare on the country’s eastern coast.
The cliffs may be the grand finale, but the journey there from Ireland is worth the ride. Castles throughout the countryside mark pivotal points in the Irish fight for independence as well as relics of British nobility.
Miles of sheep and other livestock dot the lush landscapes as you travel farther from a Dublin to Ireland’s westerly coast.
The tour guide points out the small town where Barack and Michelle Obama stopped some years back as part of a president visit. A monument outside a pub makes the spot.
Cost To Travel To Ireland
To properly calculate the cost of travel to Ireland, it needs to include the things you really want to do and see in the beautiful country, not necessarily the airfare, which varies.
When I added up the costs of a hotel and food + activities and tours, here’s what it cost to travel to Ireland.
- Food: 267
- Hotel: 1100
- Activities: $60
To sum it all up, Ireland is a great country for visitors looking to have an enjoyable vacation. If you visit during June, the sunlight lasts from about 3:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
While Dublin proper is not as widespread as some European city centers, the core is packed with activity and the frenzy you’d expect in a metropolitan city. Ireland: Come for the pints, stay for the people.
Once you get your passport, you should be ready for your trip. Make sure you have found the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale.
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.
Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interesting in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.
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Up Next: Atlanta Travel Guide
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In his latest social media video, food critic Keith Lee says that he’s not okay with threats to him or his family due to his reviews of Atlanta restaurants.
Lee recently wrapped up a tour of Atlanta’s black-owned eateries and caused quite a stir in the dining community. So much so that now he’s saying that threats have been made.
Keith Lee Received ‘Death Threats’ After Restaurant Reviews?
“You can disagree with me or not like what I say. I’m completely fine with that. When my safety and my family’s safety comes into play, that’s where I draw the line,” he says in a new Tik-Tok video.
“I’m going to be 100% transparent and 100% honest. Me and my family will postpone touring if other cities are going to be like this,” he says.
Lee’s most visible scuffle was with The Real Milk & Honey, which apologized after an ill-timed response video.
Radio personality Ryan Cameron posted that, “Keith lee said he and his family received death threats and he will not be returning to Atlanta for a second round of food reviews.”
Watch the video below for Lee’s full comments. Do y’all think Atlanta has gone too far?
Before You Go
Slutty Vegan is one of the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are plenty others. If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a bar explosion in recent years.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
